Scleroderma is a group of diseases that, according to the Mayo Clinic, involve thickening and tightening of the skin and possibly connective tissues of the body. There are two types of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Localized scleroderma affects only the skin, whereas systemic scleroderma can affect the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. One subtype of localized scleroderma is limited scleroderma, which has multiple possible symptoms.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) reports that one group of symptoms associated with limited scleroderma is called Raynaud's phenomenon. This condition occurs when the small blood vessels of the hands and feet contract as a result of anxiety or exposure to the cold. The hands and feet may become white and cold, and then turn red when blood flow returns.
Skin Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic reports that another symptom of limited scleroderma is tight and hardened skin. According to NIAMS, the calcium can be deposited in the skin, creating thick skin plaques often seen in limited scleroderma. The affected skin is usually only the lower arms and legs, which includes fingers and toes. However, sometimes the face and neck is also affected. According to the Mayo Clinic, the skin can become shiny because of the skin being pulled tights over bone. If the fingers are affected, it may be difficult to bend them because of the tightness of the skin.
Red Spots or Lines
A third symptom of limited scleroderma, according to the Mayo Clinic, is the appearance of red lines or spots on the skin which are caused by tiny red blood vessels swelling underneath the skin. The medical term for these visible blood vessels is teleangiectasias. NIAMS reports that these blood vessels are not painful, and cause only cosmetic problems
Esophageal Dysfunction
According to NIAMS, a fourth symptom of limited scleroderma is dysfunction of the esophagus due to impaired smooth muscle that surrounds the esophagus. This impairment causes the improper movement of the esophagus during swallowing, which may cause difficulty while eating. Also because the esophagus does not operate properly, acid from the stomach may cause chronic reflux and heartburn.
